5 Delicious Sides for Fried Fish.

Sides for fried fish can elevate your dining experience! The aroma of fried fish is enough to make your taste buds tingle, leaving you eager for the perfect accompaniment. The right sides transform a fried fish dinner into something special, enhancing flavor and ensuring your meal is unforgettable.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a piece of fried fish, and enjoying its delicious salty-sweet flavor. Now consider the sides that can enhance that experience. From zesty coleslaw to crispy French fries, there’s a wide array of choices. Let’s explore some impressive side dishes for fish that will wow your guests!

Classic Hush Puppies: A Southern Staple

Hush puppies are a beloved Southern tradition, especially with fried fish. They boast a crunchy exterior while remaining tender and fluffy on the inside. This makes them a favorite side dish. For over 30 years, they’ve been a hit at fish fries and seafood places.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

The basic hush puppy recipe is simple. It includes cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and buttermilk. But, you can also add things like onions, jalapeños, or cheddar cheese for extra flavor. The secret to light and fluffy hush puppies is the right mix of ingredients and oil temperature.

Enjoy these hush puppies hot, on their own, or with sauces like remoulade or honey mustard. They’re great with fried fish, adding a tasty and crunchy contrast.

“Hush puppies have been served for over three decades at NC Seafood Restaurant in Raleigh.”

To make the best hush puppies, use this recipe: 1 cup cornmeal, 1/2 cup flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1 egg, and 3/4 cup buttermilk. Fry them in 350°F (175°C) oil for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should be golden and crispy.

Tangy Coleslaw: A Refreshing Contrast

A tangy coleslaw can change the game when paired with savory fried fish. It offers a cool, crunchy side that contrasts with the fried seafood’s rich, crispy texture. Shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy, tangy dressing make coleslaw a palate cleanser, balancing the fried fish’s heaviness.

A good coleslaw recipe can take your fried fish to the next level. The acidity and crunch of coleslaw create a delightful contrast, making the meal more enjoyable. Whether you stick to classic how-to-make coleslaw or try new variations, it’s a perfect match for coleslaw for fried fish.

Ingredient	Quantity
Avocado Oil Mayonnaise	¼ cup
Apple Cider Vinegar	1 tablespoon
Lime Juice	1 teaspoon
Sugar	½ teaspoon
Coleslaw Mix	4 cups

For a tasty coleslaw, let the flavors meld. Chill your homemade coleslaw for at least an hour before serving. This way, the dressing fully mixes with the crisp veggies. You can store leftover coleslaw in the fridge for 3-5 days, enjoying its refreshing contrast with fried fish all week.

“Coleslaw is a versatile side dish that can transform a simple fried fish meal into a flavorful and well-balanced dining experience.”

So, when you serve crispy fried fish, remember to add tangy coleslaw. This side dish offers the perfect contrast to the fried seafood’s rich flavors. It will leave your taste buds fully satisfied.

Golden Brown French Fries: A Classic Pairing

Few sides match the golden brown french fries with fried fish. The crispy, salty fries and tender, flaky fish make a perfect pair. Whether you choose thick-cut steak fries or delicate shoestring fries, this combo is a crowd-pleaser.

In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the tradition of fish fry dates back to the mid-19th century. European immigrants, mainly Catholic Europeans, settled in the region. Today, Milwaukee is famous for its delicious fish fries, with fried catfish being a favorite.

During Prohibition, fish fry helped keep Wisconsin’s breweries and taverns alive. A classic Milwaukee fish fry includes fish, coleslaw, rye bread, applesauce, and tartar sauce. And, of course, french fries for their crispy texture that goes well with the fish.

Side Dish	Pairing Recommendation
Coleslaw	Coleslaw is recommended as the perfect pairing for fried fish, particularly Southern Fried Catfish.
Hush Puppies	Hush puppies are a Southern staple that pair beautifully with fried fish, offering a contrasting texture and flavor.
Tartar Sauce	Tartar sauce is a classic condiment that complements the rich, crispy fried fish perfectly.

For a french fries recipe, aim for a crispy outside and fluffy inside. A good how-to make french fries technique can make the dish better. The french fries with fried fish combo is a beloved classic that delights many.

sides for fried fish: A Guide to Perfection

Choosing the right sides for fried fish can make your meal better. From creamy mashed potatoes to tangy coleslaw, each dish can boost the taste and texture of the fish. Mixing heavy and light sides makes for a meal that’s both filling and refreshing.

The best sides for fried fish are endless. Classic hush puppies are a Southern favorite that contrasts well with crispy fish. French fries with Cajun spices add a twist to a classic combo. For a healthier choice, sweet potato fries are crunchy and sweet.

Leafy greens like collard greens or sautéed spinach add freshness and nutrition. Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or asparagus, bring out caramelized flavors and crisp textures.

For a light side, try a cucumber salad or a quinoa salad. These side dish ideas for fried fish complement the fish and make for a balanced meal.

When picking side dishes that complement fried fish, think about flavors. Sweet, acidic, and crunchy elements create a perfect balance. Whether you choose classic comfort foods or innovative veggie sides, the goal is to find what you love.

“The perfect side dish can transform a good fried fish meal into an extraordinary culinary experience.”

Side Dish	Description
Mashed Potatoes	A classic all-American favorite, creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the crispy fried fish.
Coleslaw	Tangy and crunchy, coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of fried fish.
French Fries	Seasoned with Cajun spices, french fries can add a unique twist to the classic fried fish and fries pairing.
Sweet Potato Fries	A healthier alternative to traditional fries, sweet potato fries provide a sweet and crispy accompaniment to fried fish.
Collard Greens	Simmered in a rich broth with bacon, collard greens offer a hearty and flavorful side dish for fried fish.

Remoulade Sauce: A Cajun Delight

Elevate your fried fish with Remoulade Sauce’s bold, tangy flavors. This Cajun-inspired condiment adds a creamy, zesty kick to seafood dishes. It’s perfect with fried fish like catfish or cod.

Ingredients and Preparation

To make this sauce, you need mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, capers, diced pickles, and spices. The creamy mayonnaise balances with the tangy mustard and salty capers. This mix complements fried fish’s savory, crunchy texture.

Making the sauce is quick and easy. Mix mayonnaise, mustard, capers, pickles, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk until well mixed. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more mustard or hot sauce for extra flavor.

Ready your Remoulade Sauce to serve as a dipping sauce or drizzle over fish. The creamy, tangy sauce pairs well with the fish’s crispy exterior. It’s a mouthwatering combination that will impress your guests.

Remoulade Sauce is a must-try with fried fish, whether for a classic fish fry or new seafood recipes. Its bold, Cajun flavors will take your dishes to new heights. It’s a delightful addition to your cooking.

Pickled Jalapeños: A Spicy Kick

Pickled jalapeños add a spicy kick to fried fish. They offer a tangy, spicy contrast to the rich fish. You can serve them as a topping or on the side, letting everyone adjust the heat.

Making pickled jalapeños is quick and easy, taking less than 30 minutes. You get a pint of flavorful pickled veggies that last 2-3 weeks in the fridge. You’ll need fresh jalapeños, pineapple, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic, mustard seeds, and coriander.

To start, slice the jalapeños and pineapple thinly. Combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a pot, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once the sugar and salt dissolve, remove it from the heat and let it cool a bit.

1. Pack sliced jalapeños and pineapple into a wide-mouth mason jar.
2. Pour the cooled brine over the veggies, making sure they’re covered.
3. Add garlic, mustard seeds, and coriander to the jar.
4. Seal the jar and refrigerate overnight before serving.

The tangy, spicy pickled jalapeños are perfect with fried fish. They offer a nice contrast to the crispy batter. Try them on tacos, burgers, or salads for a flavor boost.

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh jalapeños, sliced	1 lb
Ripe pineapple, sliced	1 cup
Apple cider vinegar	1 cup
Water	1 cup
Sugar	2 tsp
Kosher salt	1 tbsp
Garlic cloves, minced	2
Mustard seeds	1 tsp
Coriander seeds	1/2 tsp

Enjoy the sweet, tangy, and spicy mix of these homemade pickled jalapeños with your fried fish.

Lemon Wedges: A Bright Burst of Freshness

Lemon wedges are key when serving fried fish. They add a bright, citrusy flavor that cuts through the fish’s richness. This makes the meal refreshing and enjoyable.

Adding lemon wedges to your fried fish is easy but impactful. Guests can adjust the lemon to their liking, making the meal their own. The lemon’s yellow color also makes the dish look appealing.

Lemon wedges are perfect with any fried fish, from fish and chips to more complex dishes. They balance the fish’s crispy outside with tangy citrus, delighting your taste buds.

Make sure to have lemon wedges ready when serving fried fish. They can turn a simple dish into a memorable meal. The bright, zesty flavor they add is unmatched.

Tartar Sauce: A Classic Condiment

Tartar sauce is a key condiment for fried fish. It’s cool and creamy, balancing the crispy, savory seafood. You can either whip it up at home or purchase it ready-made. Either way, it’s essential for a fish fry.

Homemade Tartar Sauce

Making your own tartar sauce lets you choose the flavors. It’s made with mayonnaise, pickles or relish, lemon juice, and seasonings like dill and mustard. Many people prefer homemade tartar sauce for its freshness and lack of preservatives.

To make it, mix the ingredients in a bowl. Adjust the amounts to your taste. There are many ways to make tartar sauce, showing its flexibility and personal touch. You can make more or less, depending on how many you’re serving.

Store-Bought Tartar Sauce

For convenience, you can buy tartar sauce. It usually has mayonnaise and dill pickles, common items in many homes. Homemade is customizable, but store-bought is quick and easy.

Whether you make it or buy it, tartar sauce is great with fried fish and seafood. It’s easy to make more or less, making it perfect for any occasion.

Corn on the Cob: A Summertime Favorite

Corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish loved by many. Its sweet, juicy kernels and tender texture pair perfectly with crispy fried fish. Whether boiled, grilled, or roasted, it adds a simple yet satisfying touch to any meal.

The Summer Sweet Corn Saute recipe has just 5 main ingredients. It has about 122 calories per serving, with 12g of carbs and 2g of protein. It highlights the importance of sweet corn in the dish, with 4 cups of kernels per serving.

Preparing corn on the cob is easy. The recipe shows how to slice basil leaves and sauté the corn until it’s crisp-tender. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner, pairing well with various proteins like chicken, salmon, steaks, and pork tenderloin.

If you want something heartier, try the succotash recipe. It combines corn with tomatoes, lima beans, and bacon for a satisfying side. The cornbread recipe uses fresh corn and herbs like chives, parsley, and thyme for a fresh twist.

Enjoying corn on the cob with fried fish is a must for summer. It adds a burst of sweetness and a touch of nostalgia to your meal.

Baked Beans: A Hearty Accompaniment

Baked baked beans are a great side dish for fried fish. They offer rich, savory flavors and a tender texture. This makes a perfect match for the crispy fish. You can choose classic baked beans or add bacon or brown sugar for extra taste.

The recipe for these tasty baked beans includes ground beef, onion, and bell pepper. Cook them at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes. Use pork and beans, barbecue sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar for flavor. Worcestershire and soy sauce add a savory touch.

To make the baked beans, bake them in a 9×13-inch dish, covered with foil. Christy Denney suggests using a slow cooker for 4-6 hours on low. This ensures the best texture and flavor.

Enjoy these baked beans with your fried fish for a comforting meal. Try them with Broccoli Salad and Frito Corn Dip for more variety. Use a slow cooker to keep the baked beans warm.

In summary, cc is a fantastic side for fried fish. They add rich flavors and a tender texture. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add some twists, this combo will satisfy your taste buds.

Conclusion

Adding the right side dishes to your fried fish dinner can make it unforgettable. Try classic hush puppies and tangy coleslaw or get creative with pickled jalapeños and baked beans. The variety of options is vast, allowing you to mix flavors and textures for a memorable meal.

Don’t be shy to try new side dish ideas for fried fish. Whether it’s golden brown French fries or tempura vegetables, the goal is to enhance the taste of your fried fish. The right mix of savory sides will make your meal a success.

The secret to a great fried fish dinner is balance. Explore the many side dish options to take your fried fish to the next level. This way, you’ll create a meal that everyone will enjoy and remember.

FAQ

What are some classic side dish options for fried fish?

Classic sides for fried fish include hush puppies, coleslaw, and French fries. Tartar sauce and lemon wedges are also great choices.

How can I add variations to Hush Puppies?

To spice up hush puppies, try adding onions, jalapeños, or cheddar cheese to the batter.

What makes coleslaw a good pairing for fried fish?

Coleslaw is a perfect match for fried fish. It’s cool and refreshing, contrasting the fish’s richness. The acidity and crunch of coleslaw cleanse your palate.

How can I elevate my fried fish dinner with the right side dishes?

Mix heavy sides with light ones. Try creamy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, and golden French fries with your fried fish.

What is remoulade sauce, and how does it pair with fried fish?

Remoulade sauce is a Cajun condiment with mayonnaise, mustard, capers, and spices. It’s bold and pairs well with fried fish, great for dipping.

How can pickled jalapeños enhance a fried fish meal?

Pickled jalapeños add a tangy, spicy kick to fried fish. They offer a lively contrast to the fish’s richness.

Why are lemon wedges an essential pairing for fried fish?

Lemon wedges add a bright, citrusy flavor. They cut through the fish’s richness, refreshing your palate.

What role does tartar sauce play in a fried fish meal?

Tartar sauce is a timeless pairing for fried fish, offering a cool and creamy contrast that enhances the savory taste of the fish. You can either prepare it from scratch at home or opt for a store-bought version.

How does corn on the cob complement fried fish?

Corn on the cob is a summery side that goes well with fried fish. Its sweet, juicy kernels and tender texture contrast nicely with the fish.

What makes baked beans a good pairing with fried fish?

Baked beans are a great match for fried fish. Their rich, savory flavors and tender texture complement the fish’s crispy texture.